Today, Governor Phil Murphy delivered his seventh annual State of the State address, where he announced new legislation that would reduce the number of people re-incarcerated for technical parole violations, which is when someone fails to meet the conditions of their parole rather than commits a new offense. An estimated 10 percent of the state’s prison population — or between 1,100 and 1,200 parolees — are in state custody for technical parole violations. In response to the announcement, New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP) released the following statement.

Marleina Ubel, Senior Policy Analyst, NJPP:

This announcement marks a critical step toward building a more equitable and effective justice system in New Jersey. By reducing the number of individuals re-incarcerated for technical violations, this policy would address a key driver of unnecessary incarceration, promote stability for individuals reentering their communities, and improve government efficiency by significantly reducing the number of people entering the New Jersey Department of Corrections.

We look forward to hearing how this policy would extend relief to the over 1,000 people currently incarcerated for such violations. We commend the governor’s leadership in advancing this reform, which reflects a commitment to justice, fairness, and second chances.

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